Chicago Cubs: Up and down week leads to more Cubs questions

The Good

There are several positive aspects from the last week. The “take it easy” approach in Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon‘s philosophy reached the next steps. Many of the Cubs regulars played a more significant amount of innings as they are working into their swing.

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Anthony Rizzo played four consecutive games with at least three at-bats in each. Similar can be said about Addison Russell, Ben Zobrist and Kris Bryant. Each player had at least two hits, including a home run for Russell and Zobrist. Bryant had two homers.

The starting rotation also performed well this week. In his second start of the spring, Jake Arrieta pitched a solid three innings, allowing one run. The only concern is that he allowed three walks. Kyle Hendricks allowed his first two runs of the spring against the Diamondbacks, but still has yet to walk a batter. Veteran starter John Lackey performed well against San Diego, allowing a hit, a run, and striking out one in three innings.

As Cactus League play continues, the starting rotation and regular position players will see more time. They are starting to warm up and perform. With all the rest and lack of pressure, the Cubs will be fresh entering the season.